Volvo XC90 Facelift Arrives on March 4, Here’s What to Expect!

The Volvo XC90 has been the epitome of Scandinavian luxury, blending safety, comfort, and understated elegance in a way that few SUVs can match. Now, Volvo is set to give its flagship SUV a much-needed refresh, with the facelifted XC90 confirmed for launch on March 4, 2025. While official details are scarce, we’ve pieced together a speculative breakdown of what to expect from this refreshed luxury SUV.

A Sharper, More Sophisticated Look

Volvo’s design philosophy has always been about timeless sophistication rather than aggressive styling, and the facelifted XC90 is expected to continue this tradition with subtle but meaningful design tweaks. The front grille is reworked with a fresh pattern, giving it a more contemporary appeal. The signature Thor’s Hammer LED DRLs get a sharper design, while the bumpers see slight modifications for better aerodynamics and a refreshed look. The alloy wheels receive a new design, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. 

Around the back, the vertical taillight which is an XC90 hallmark also gets minor revisions to bring them in line with Volvo’s newer design cues. While these changes might not be drastic, they will ensure the XC90 remains a visually compelling option in the luxury SUV space.

Plush Yet Practical: What’s Changing Inside?

The XC90’s cabin has always been a benchmark in Scandinavian minimalism and comfort, and the facelift could elevate it further with improved materials, advanced tech, and enhanced practicality. The infotainment system is expected to get a larger touchscreen with Volvo’s latest Android-based interface, promising a more seamless user experience. 

Upholstery and trim options are expected to be updated, possibly with more sustainable, premium materials in line with Volvo’s eco-conscious approach. The already spacious and well-thought-out interior could see small tweaks for improved storage, while the Bowers & Wilkins audio system is also expected to receive an upgrade for an even richer in-car entertainment experience. 

Additionally, Volvo is known for its pioneering work in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), so we could see enhancements in semi-autonomous driving tech, making the XC90 even safer than before.

Powertrain: Electrification to the Fore?

Under the hood, the XC90 facelift is offered in both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options in the global market. The B6 mild-hybrid is the 2-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 48V hybrid system, delivering around 300 PS while offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. 

Meanwhile, the more exciting Recharge T8 plug-in hybrid, packing a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to an electric motor, producing a combined output of 455 PS. With an 18.8 kWh battery, this variant is expected to offer an electric-only range of up to 70km, making it an excellent choice for those looking for both performance and sustainability. 

Whether Volvo brings both powertrains or sticks to just the mild hybrid remains to be seen, but either way, the XC90 facelift will likely emphasize efficiency and lower emissions without compromising on power.

Tech & Features: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Volvo has always been at the forefront of automotive safety and in-car tech, and the facelifted XC90 is expected to build on this reputation. The Android-based infotainment system with built-in Google services is likely to get an upgrade, offering better responsiveness and more intuitive controls. 

The ADAS suite, which already includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking, might see further refinements for improved accuracy. A 360-degree camera system could get better resolution for easier manoeuvring while driving modes might be tweaked to make better use of the hybrid powertrains. Given Volvo’s focus on sustainability and well-being, an advanced air purification system may also be included to improve in-cabin air quality, making long drives even more comfortable.

Expected Price & Rivals

Currently, the XC90 is priced at Rs 1.01 crore (ex-showroom, India), and with these expected updates, a slight price increase is likely and is expected to launch around Rs 1.05 Crore.

The facelifted XC90 will continue to go up against established luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, and Lexus RX. While Volvo may not have the same brand pull as some of its German rivals, the XC90’s unique blend of luxury, safety, electrification, and understated design ensures that it remains a strong contender in this segment. 

If Volvo manages to introduce the plug-in hybrid variant in India, it could provide a significant advantage over its competitors, especially for buyers looking for an efficient yet powerful alternative.

Final Thoughts: Worth the Wait?

With its March 4 launch confirmed, the Volvo XC90 facelift is shaping up to be a smarter, safer, and more electrified version of itself. While it won’t be a radical departure from the current model, the expected design refinements, upgraded tech, and emphasis on electrification make it a promising update. For those looking for a luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort, sustainability, and safety over outright sportiness, the refreshed XC90 could be a perfect choice. Now, all that remains is to see if Volvo delivers on these expectations. So, stay tuned for the official launch! 

What do you think about the Volvo XC90 Facelift? Let us know in the comments!